Every ounce counts when you head into the backcountry with your world on your back. But hunting and fishing can be rough on gear, so there’s a premium on durability, too. These products all strike the right balance, preparing you for anything out there.
1. REI Sub-Alpine UL Tent
Though it weighs just over 5 pounds, the 2-person Sub-Alpine can take some weather. Its three-pole design stands up to stiff wind and its modified dome provides headroom and a vestibule for gear, important considerations when you’re stuck in a prolonged back-country storm. ($239; 800-426-4840; rei.com)
** 2. Brunton Glorb Lantern**
With no messy fuel to spill or ignite, the Glorb’s brilliant light comes from LED bulbs powered by four AA batteries. Normal power provides plenty of light for reading in a tent. Switch to high for an intense white, almost celestial light. The Glorb weighs 4 ounces and runs for 250 hours. ($30; 800-443-4871; brunton.com)
3. REI Snow Peak Mini Titanium Solo Cookset
Titanium isn’t just for the space program anymore. This entire three-piece cookset weighs a mere 5½ ounces and is strong enough to pound tent stakes. The bigger pot holds 28 fluid ounces-enough to cook a back-country supper when the Dutch oven is left in camp. ($35; 800-426-4840; rei.com)
** 4. Eberlestock Skycrane Backpack**
The limit to this pack is probably the back that’s carrying it. The 6-pound 4-ounce Skycrane features quick-draw bow and rifle scabbards and the capability to carry a strapless hard case plus a multitude of meat and gear duffels. It enlarges from 2,600 cubic inches to a sciatica-inducing 5,100. (From $279; 877-866-3047; eberlestock.com)
5. Cabela’s XPG Backpacker Sleeping Bag
Lightweight and durable, Cabela’s entry into the backpacking bag field should turn heads, even as it keeps them warm. The XPG features details such as a zipper baffle, a pillow nook and a zippered pocket. The 0-degree model weighs 4 pounds 11 ounces and is a bargain at $120. (800-237-4444; cabelas.com)
6. MSR DromLite Water Bag
I abused this lightweight bag but could not make it rupture, leak or even look worn. Made of tough, 200-denier Cordura nylon, the DromLite is lined with food-grade polyurethane to eliminate taste transfer. The 2-liter model weighs just 3.1 ounces. Available in 2-, 4- and 6-liter bags. (From $18; 800-531-9531; msrgear.com)
7. ACR Electronics Terrafix 406 GPS/Personal Locator Beacon
Risk is an option anywhere in the world with the Terrafix, which transmits your location to rescuers via satellite with the push of a button. At 1 pound, it’s the smallest and lightest beacon on the market. Run time: 5 years. ($600; 954-981-3333; acrterrafix.com)
** 8. Coleman Exponent F1 Stove**
The Exponent F1 PowerBoost, which weighs just 4.5 ounces without the fuel canister, adjusts from a roaring boil to a gentle simmer. ($50; 800-835-3278; coleman.com)